Low Levels Of Enzyme Research Articles

Lentiviral Vector-Mediated Ex Vivo Hematopoietic Stem Cell Gene Therapy for Mucopolysaccharidosis IVA Murine Model.

Mucopolysaccharidosis IVA (MPS IVA) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by a mutation in the N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfate-sulfatase (GALNS) gene resulting in progressive systemic skeletal dysplasia. There is currently no effective treatment available for this skeletal condition. Thus, the development of a new therapy stands as an unmet challenge in reversing or alleviating the progression of the disease. Our research, which could be a game-changer, hypothesizes that ex vivo lentiviral (LV) gene therapy (GT) could produce the supraphysiological level of active GALNS enzyme by hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) transduced with LVs carrying the native GALNS gene under two different promoters (CBh and COL2A1), impacting bone and cartilage abnormalities in MPS IVA. We conditioned newborn knock-out (Galns-/-) MPS IVA mice with busulfan and intravenously transplanted LV-modified HSCs isolated from the bone marrow of Galns-/- donor mice. Transplanted mice were autopsied at 16 weeks, and tissues were collected to assess the therapeutic efficacy of modified HSCs in MPS IVA mice. Although HSC-LV-CBh-hGALNS provided a higher GALNS enzyme activity in plasma, HSC-LV-COL2A1-hGALNS stably corrected heart and bone abnormalities better under a low level of GALNS enzyme. Our findings suggest that ex vivo LV-GT may potentially treat MPS IVA.

N-Acetyltransferase 2 gene polymorphism and its serum levels in vitiligo patients.

Although numerous mechanisms are involved in vitiligo pathogenesis, few studies correlate N-acetyltransferase 2 to this disease. To assess the N-acetyltransferase 2 (rs1799929) gene and its serum levels in vitiligo patients. In this case-control study, 65 vitiligo cases were compared to 65 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum NAT2 levels and the NAT2 gene polymorphism (rs1799929) were evaluated using ELISA and real-time PCR, respectively. Serum N-acetyltransferase 2 levels were significantly lower in cases than in controls, 1.24 ± 0.31 vs. 2.01 ± 0.46 (p = 0.001). CC genotype was more dominant in controls (58.5%) than in cases (20%). TT and CT genotypes were more dominant in cases (30.8% and 49.2%) than in controls (13.8% and 27.7%), respectively (p = 0.001). The C allele was more prominent in controls (72.3%) than in cases (44.6%) while the T allele was more dominant in cases (55.4%) than in controls (27.7%) (p = 0.001). N-acetyltransferase 2 slow acetylator phenotype (TT genotype) was higher in cases (30.8%) than in controls (13.8%) and rapid acetylator phenotypes (CC and CT genotypes) were higher in controls (86.2%) than in cases (69.2%) (p = 0.035). Slow acetylator genotype (TT) of NAT2 gene (rs1799929) and low serum levels of NAT2 enzyme might play a role in the susceptibility and pathogenesis of vitiligo.

A Physiological Study of the Effect of Bee Pollen on Albino Rats Induced Hypothyroidism

The current study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic role of bee pollen (BP) in reducing the harmful effects resulting from hypothyroidism compared to the drug thyroxine on some physiological indicators and improving their levels, which included weight gain (gm), hormone level (T3, T4, TSH), level TPO, cholesterol levels, HDL, LDL, VLDL, and liver enzymes ALT, AST, Hypothyroidism was induced in (24) male rats using the drug carbimazole (CBZ) Which lasted for (15) days at 30 mg/kg of body weight. A random sample was chosen to confirm the occurrence of hypothyroidism, as the results of examining blood samples that were drawn from the animals showed a high concentration of the TSH hormone and Low concentrations of thyroid hormones in the serum compared to the negative control., and this indicates the occurrence of hypothyroidism. Then the animals in which hypothyroidism was induced were separated into 3 experimental collections in addition to the control group and a fifth group. Each group consists of (8) animals. The dosing period lasted thirty days orally. The negative control group, G1, was provided with a diet and water freely. G2 was continued to be dosed with the drug (CBZ) at a concentration of 30 mg/kg of body weight. G3 was continued to be dosed with the drug (CBZ) at a concentration of 30 mg/kg and solution (BP). At a concentration of 200 mg/kg body weight, G4 was dosed with levothyroxine at a concentration of 20 mg/kg body weight, while G5 was dosed with BP solution only at a concentration of 200 mg/kg body weight. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed and blood samples were obtained. The results were less than 0.05 in group G2 in body weight, the concentration of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, and the concentration of TPO and HDL, and a significant increase (P<0.05) in the concentration of TSH, Cholesterol, LDL, and VLDL, respectively, with an increase in the concentration of liver enzymes. AST and ALT compared to the control group. As for the G3 and G4 groups, the result appeared an original increase a total body weight and the concentration of the hormones T3, T4, and the TPO enzyme, a noticeable improvement in the lipid profile, and a low level of the ALT enzyme and the and thyroid-stimulating hormone compared to the G2 group. As for the group G5 has witnessed an increase in T4 concentration and a decrease in ALT concentration and body weight, and the concentrations of T3, TSH, and TPO are closer to control. We conclude from the current study that BP has a role in reducing the effects of hypothyroidism, increasing weight gain, and improving the lipid profile and the level of ALT liver enzymes. AST and Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) level.

Cuboids Prevail When Unraveling the Influence of Microchip Geometry on Macrophage Interactions and Metabolic Responses.

Drug delivery advances rely on using nano- and microsized carriers to transfer therapeutic molecules, although challenges persist in increasing the availability of new and even approved pharmaceutical products. Particle shape, a critical determinant in how these carriers distribute within the body after administration, raises opportunities of using, for instance, micrometer-sized nonspherical particles for vascular targeting and thereby creating new prospects for precise drug delivery to specific targeted areas. The versatility of polycrystalline silicon microfabrication allows for significant variation in the size and shape of microchips, and so, in the current work, photolithography was employed to create differently shaped polysilicon microchips, including cuboids, cubes, bars, and cylinders, to explore the influence of particle shape on cellular interactions. These microchips with different shapes and lateral dimensions, accounting for surface areas in the range of ca. 15 to 120 μm2 and corresponding total volumes of 0.4 to 27 μm3, serve as ideal models for investigating their interactions with macrophages with diameters of ca. 20 μm. Side-scattering imaging flow cytometry was employed for studying the interaction of label-free prepared microchips with RAW 264.7 macrophages. Using a dose of 3 microchips per cell, results show that cuboids exhibit the highest cellular association (ca. 25%) and uptake (ca. 20%), suggesting their potential as efficient carriers for targeted drug delivery to macrophages. Conversely, similarly sized cylinders and bar-shaped microchips exhibit lower uptakes of about 8% and about 6%, respectively, indicating potential benefits in evading macrophage recognition. On average, 1-1.5 microchips were internalized, and ca. 1 microchip was surface-bound per cell, with cuboids showing the higher values overall. Macrophages respond to microchips by increasing their metabolic activity and releasing low levels of intracellular enzymes, indicating reduced toxicity. Interestingly, increasing the particle dose enhances macrophage metabolic activity without significantly affecting enzyme release.

Assessment of 11 β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type I Activity in Patients With Psoriasis Vulgaris: A Novel Insight Into the Pathogenesis of the Disease.

Background Psoriasis is a relapsing dermatologic disease with a complex multifactorial etiology. Accumulating evidence has established the presence of cutaneous steroidogenesis with 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11βHSD) enzyme being the most important final step of this pathway. This enzyme can control local levels of activated glucocorticoids (GCs) in the skin, which is the key to maintaining healthy skin. Methods This case-control study was conducted to evaluate 11βHSD1 level in psoriasis patients, in both lesional and non-lesional skin, compare it to controls, and correlate its activity with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Results A significant decrease of 11βHSD1 level in psoriasis patients compared to healthy controls was observed. In addition, decreased 11βHSD1 level was observed in lesional compared to non-lesional skin in psoriasis patients. There was no significant correlation between the enzyme levels and PASI score or PSS score in patients with psoriasis. However, the PSS score was negatively correlated with 11βHSD1 level in healthy controls. Further histopathological assessment revealed that lower enzyme levels were associated with greater epidermal acanthosis and inflammation. Conclusion This shows the role of 11βHSD1 in controlling psoriatic inflammation, including the degree of epidermal proliferation, which might reveal the complex symphony of psoriasis pathogenesis.

Effect of kynurenic acid on enzymatic activity of the DNA base excision repair pathway in specific areas of the sheep brain

Relatively low levels of antioxidant enzymes coupled with high oxygen metabolism result in the formation of numerous oxidative DNA damages in the tissues of the central nervous system. Recently, kynurenic acid (KYNA), knowns for its neuroprotective properties, has gained increasing attention in this context. Therefore, our hypothesis assumed that increased KYNA levels in the brain would positively influence mRNA expression of selected enzymes of the base excision repair pathway as well as enhance their efficiency in excising damaged nucleobases in specific areas of the sheep brain. The study was conducted on adult anestrous sheep (n = 18), in which two different doses of KYNA (20 and 100 μg/day) were infused into the third brain ventricle for three days. Molecular and biochemical analysis included the hypothalamus (preoptic and mediol-basal areas), hippocampus (CA3 field) and amygdala (central amygdaloid nucleus), dissected from the brain of sheep euthanized immediately after the last infusion. The results revealed a significant increase P < 0.001) in the relative mRNA abundance of N-methylpurine DNA glycosylase (MPG) following administration of both dose of KYNA across all examined tissues. The transcription of thymine-DNA glycosylase (TDG) increased significantly (P < 0.001) in all tissues in response to the lower KYNA dose compared to the control group. Moreover, 8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG) DNA glycosylase (OGG1) mRNA levels were also higher in both animal groups (P < 0.001). In addition, in the hypothalamus, hippocampus and amygdala, AP endonuclease 1 (APE1) mRNA expression increased under both doses of KYNA. Moreover, the both dose of KYNA significantly stimulated the efficiency of 8-oxoG excision in hypothalamus and amygdala (P < 0.05–0.001). The lower and higher doses of KYNA significantly influenced the effectiveness of εA and εC in all structures (P < 0.01–0.001). In conclusion, the favorable effect of KYNA in the brain may include the protection of genetic material in nerve and glial cells by stimulating the expression and efficiency of BER pathway enzymes.

Hyperoxia and brain: the link between necessity and injury from a molecular perspective.

Oxygen (O2) supplementation is commonly used to treat hypoxia in patients with respiratory failure. However, indiscriminate use can lead to hyperoxia, a condition detrimental to living tissues, particularly the brain. The brain is sensitive to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation caused by high concentrations of O2, which can result in brain damage and mitochondrial dysfunction, common features of neurodegenerative disorders. Hyperoxia leads to increased production of ROS, causing oxidative stress, an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, which can damage tissues. The brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress due to its lipid composition, high O2 consumption rate, and low levels of antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, hyperoxia can cause vasoconstriction and decreased O2 supply to the brain, posing a challenge to redox balance and neurodegenerative processes. Studies have shown that the severity of hyperoxia-induced brain damage varies with inspired O2 concentration and duration of exposure. Therefore, careful evaluation of the balance between benefits and risks of O2 supplementation, especially in clinical settings, is crucial.

In Vitro Hepatotoxicity of Routinely Used Opioids and Sedative Drugs.

A hepatocyte cell line was used to determine the hepatotoxicity of sedatives and opioids, as the hepatotoxicity of these drugs has not yet been well characterized. This might pose a threat, especially to critically ill patients, as they often receive high cumulative doses for daily analgosedation and often already have impaired liver function due to an underlying disease or complications during treatment. A well-established biosensor based on HepG2/C3A cells was used for the determination of the hepatotoxicity of commonly used sedatives and opioids in the intensive care setting (midazolam, propofol, s-ketamin, thiopental, fentanyl, remifentanil, and sufentanil). The incubation time was 2 × 3 days with clinically relevant (Cmax) and higher concentrations (C5× and C10×) of each drug in cell culture medium or human plasma. Afterward, we measured the cell count, vitality, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity, cytochrome P 450 1A2 (CYP1A2), and albumin synthesis. All tested substances reduced the viability of hepatocyte cells, but sufentanil and remifentanil showed more pronounced effects. The cell count was diminished by sufentanil in both the medium and plasma and by remifentanil only in plasma. Sufentanil and remifentanil also led to higher values of LDH in the cell culture supernatant. A reduction of mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity was seen with the use of midazolam and s-ketamine. Microalbumin synthesis was reduced in plasma after its incubation with higher concentrations of sufentanil and remifentanil. Remifentanil and s-ketamine reduced CYP1A2 activity, while propofol and thiopental increased it. Our findings suggest that none of the tested sedatives and opioids have pronounced hepatotoxicity. Sufentanil, remifentanil, and s-ketamine showed moderate hepatotoxic effects in vitro. These drugs should be given with caution to patients vulnerable to hepatotoxic drugs, e.g., patients with pre-existing liver disease or liver impairment as part of their underlying disease (e.g., hypoxic hepatitis or cholestatic liver dysfunction in sepsis). Further studies are indicated for this topic, which may use more complex cell culture models and global pharmacovigilance reports, addressing the limitation of the used cell model: HepG2/C3A cells have a lower metabolic capacity due to their low levels of CYP enzymes compared to primary hepatocytes. However, while the test model is suitable for parental substances, it is not for toxicity testing of metabolites.

Influence of coloured lights on growth and enzyme production of beneficial endophytic fungi.

The influence of light regulation on fungal growth and enzyme production was tested on endophytic isolates of Fusarium proliferatum (CCH), Colletotrichum boninense (PL1, PL9, OL2), Colletotrichum gloeosporiodes (OL3) and Colletotrichum siamense (PL3). The isolates were treated with blue, red, green, and yellow light, while white fluorescent light (12h light/12h dark photoperiod) and 24h dark conditions were applied as control. Results revealed that coloured light treatments induced formation of circadian rings, while exposure to white light and dark conditions showed less pronounced circadian rings. Growth and sporulation of endophytes were not significantly influenced by light. By contrast, enzyme production was affected by coloured light treatments, notably with red (amylase), blue (cellulase) and yellow (cellulase, xylanase, L-asparaginase) light, resulting in lower enzyme levels for certain isolates. Under control conditions, enzyme production was relatively higher for amylase, cellulase, xylanase (for cultures incubated in the dark), and for L-asparaginase (for cultures incubated in white fluorescent light). Among the endophytic isolates, F. proliferatum (CCH) showed better response to coloured light treatment as higher sporulation and enzyme production was detected, although growth was significantly suppressed. On the contrary, C. gloeosporiodes (OL3) showed better growth but significantly lower enzyme production and sporulation when treated with the various coloured light. This study revealed that coloured light may have the potential to manipulate growth, sporulation and enzyme production in certain fungal species as strategies for fungal control or for harnessing of valuable enzymes.

A Phase 1 Cohort Dose Escalation and Expansion Trial to Determine the Safety, Tolerance, Maximum Tolerated Dose, and Preliminary Antineoplastic Activity of IKS03 in Patients with Advanced B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL)

Background: IKS03 is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprising an anti-CD19 antibody conjugated with novel ConjuALL technology to a highly potent proprietary DNA-crosslinking pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) prodrug payload for the treatment of CD19-positive hematologic malignancies. Both the payload and the linker of IKS03 incorporate an innovative tumor-selective chemistry that takes advantage of the overexpression of beta glucuronidase in cancer cells compared to most normal tissues. Payload release and activation require cleavage of glucuronide moieties that are incorporated into the linker payload structure providing improvements in both efficacy and safety compared to traditional ADC formats. This “glucuronide trigger” is stable while in circulation with minimal to no systemic payload release from the ADC. Following binding and internalization of IKS03 into a CD19-positive cancer cell, beta glucuronidase can release the active PBD payload leading to cell death. Normal tissues without CD19 expression and/or with low levels of the beta glucuronidase enzyme have limited ADC uptake, are less able to process IKS03 and are differentially spared. In preclinical studies, IKS03 demonstrated significant in vivo efficacy with complete tumor regressions in CD19-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) xenograft models at single doses of 0.1 to 1 mg/kg. IKS03 demonstrated greater activity than the clinical benchmark ADC loncastuximab tesirine. IKS03 is also highly effective in patient-derived xenograft models that contain some of the genetic alterations commonly found in relapsed/refractory NHL patients. Results from toxicology studies in cynomologus monkey suggest a manageable safety profile at single doses, well above those required for in vivo activity. Pharmacokinetics are favorable with a mean total ADC half-life of 8 days and undetectable levels of the active PBD payload in circulation confirming targeted delivery of the payload. Study Design and Methods: This Phase 1 multicenter, open label, non-randomized study of IKS03 will consist of two parts: dose-escalation (Part I) and dose-expansion (Part II) together enrolling approximately 140 adult patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell NHL after at least two prior lines of systemic therapy. Patients will receive repeat doses of study drug by IV infusion on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle, until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or another withdrawal criterion is met. Key exclusion criteria include: active central nervous system involvement with NHL; clinically significant cardiovascular, pulmonary or hepatic disease; or receipt of other CD19-directed therapy within 3 months. Part I dose escalation will enroll patients with confirmed CD19-positive, measurable or non-measurable advanced B-cell NHL. Eligible subtypes include DLBCL, MCL, FL, high-grade B-cell, and marginal zone lymphoma as per WHO 2016 classification. Patients with Burkitt's lymphoma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia are excluded. In Part 1, the primary objective is establishment of the recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) by evaluation of safety, tolerability and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of IKS03. Dose escalation will follow a 3+3 design. A two cycle Dose-Limiting Toxicity (DLT) assessment period will be observed, and dose-escalation decisions will be guided by a study safety committee. Dose escalation increments will be adjusted based on occurrence of protocol-specified DLTs as well as overall tolerability. Secondary objectives include characterization of immunogenicity and pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of IKS03. Exploratory objectives include preliminary antineoplastic activity per Lugano criteria (Cheson et al, JCO 2014) and evaluation of pharmacodynamic markers. Part II will further evaluate the antineoplastic activity of IKS03 at the RP2D in expansion cohorts of patients with selected NHL subtypes and with measurable disease. Sample size will be determined for each subtype using a Simon Two-Stage design. Secondary objectives include further evaluation of safety, tolerability, immunogenicity and PK profile of IKS03 as well as confirmation of the RP2D. Clinical trial information: NCT05365659.

Enhancing the Catalytic Activity of Glycolate Oxidase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii through Semi-Rational Design.

Glycolate oxidase is a peroxisomal flavoprotein catalyzing the oxidation of glycolate to glyoxylate and plays crucial metabolic roles in green algae, plants, and animals. It could serve as a biocatalyst for enzymatic production of glyoxylate, a fine chemical with a wide variety of applications in perfumery, flavor, and the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. However, the low catalytic activity of native glycolate oxidase and low levels of active enzyme in heterologous expression limit its practical use in industrial biocatalysis. Herein, the glycolate oxidase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CreGO) was selected through phylogenetic tree analysis, and its low level of soluble expression in E. coli BL21(DE3) was improved through the use of the glutathione thioltransferase (GST), the choice of the vector pET22b and the optimization of induction conditions. The semi-rational design of the fusion enzyme GST-Gly-Ser-Gly-CreGO led to the superior variant GST-Gly-Ser-Gly-CreGO-Y27S/V111G/V212R with the kcat/Km value of 29.2 s-1·mM-1, which was six times higher than that of the wild type. In contrast to GST-Gly-Ser-Gly-CreGO, 5 mg/mL of crude enzyme GST-Gly-Ser-Gly-CreGO-Y27S/V111G/V212R together with 25 μg/mL of catalase catalyzed the oxidation of 300 mM of methyl glycolate for 8 h, increasing the yield from 50.4 to 93.5%.

Oral Epithelial Cells Expressing Low or Undetectable Levels of Human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Are Susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 Virus Infection In Vitro.

The oral cavity is thought to be one of the portals for SARS-CoV-2 entry, although there is limited evidence of active oral infection by SARS-CoV-2 viruses. We assessed the capacity of SARS-CoV-2 to infect and replicate in oral epithelial cells. Oral gingival epithelial cells (hTERT TIGKs), salivary gland epithelial cells (A-253), and oral buccal epithelial cells (TR146), which occupy different regions of the oral cavity, were challenged with replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 viruses and with pseudo-typed viruses expressing SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins. All oral epithelial cells expressing undetectable or low levels of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) but high levels of the alternative receptor CD147 were susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Distinct viral dynamics were seen in hTERT TIGKs compared to A-253 and TR146 cells. For example, levels of viral transcripts were sustained in hTERT TIGKs but were significantly decreased in A-253 and TR146 cells on day 3 after infection. Analysis of oral epithelial cells infected by replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 viruses expressing GFP showed that the GFP signal and SARS-CoV-2 mRNAs were not evenly distributed. Furthermore, we found cumulative SARS-CoV-2 RNAs from released viruses in the media from oral epithelial cells on day 1 and day 2 after infection, indicating productive viral infection. Taken together, our results demonstrated that oral epithelial cells were susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 viruses despite low or undetectable levels of hACE2, suggesting that alternative receptors contribute to SARS-CoV-2 infection and may be considered for the development of future vaccines and therapeutics.

#6896 A SCREENING AND CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF FABRY DISEASE IN PATIENTS ATTENDING DIALYSIS AND NEPHROLOGY CLINICS IN DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract Background and Aims Fabry disease is inherited in an X-linked manner in which the mutated gene inhibits the functioning of the alpha-Galactosidase-A enzyme causing a deficiency or absence of the enzyme, characterizing it as a progressive, lysosomal storage disorder. Subsequently, the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in the lysosomes causes damage to tissues and major organs. Fabry nephropathy is one of the major organ complications caused by Fabry disease resulting in end-stage kidney disease. The aim of our study is to determine the prevalence of Fabry disease in our patients. Method This study was a prospective, quantitative study. A cohort of 200 male patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD stage 2-5D) was enrolled. A control group of 14 healthy males was also enrolled for this study. The ELISA technique was employed to determine the alpha Gal-A enzyme concentration levels in plasma. A questionnaire using the MSSI scoring system was presented to the participants to identify clinical manifestations. The SPSS Version 27 (IBM, New York, USA) was used to analyse the data. Results A cut-off value for the alpha Gal-A enzyme concentration levels of &amp;lt;500 pg/ml was calculated. A total of 17 participants from the patient group (n=11) and the control group (n=6) displayed alpha-Gal-A enzyme levels &amp;lt;500 pg/ml. Using the univariate regression analysis, statistically significant results were revealed between alpha-Gal levels &amp;lt;500 pg/ml and age (P = .007), heat or cold intolerance (P = .049), hypertension (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and eGFR (p &amp;lt; 0.001). MSSI scores displayed a negative association (P = .001). The multivariate regression analysis showed that age and MSSI scores retained their significance when eGFR was excluded as a variable, however, with the inclusion of eGFR as a variable, none of the variables retained their significance. Conclusion Fabry disease is suspected in 17 participants with alpha-Gal levels of &amp;lt;500 pg/ml. The cause of CKD nephropathy raises interest as conditions such as FSGS have been associated with FD. The low levels of the alpha-Gal enzyme and presentation of the clinical manifestations can be utilized as preliminary findings. Confirmatory tests such as DNA analysis or Gb3 and GL3 analysis are warranted.

Association of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 with Obesity and Type II Diabetes

Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) is secreted protein family member similar to the sequence of frizzled receptors of wingless-related integration site (Wnt) signaling pathways which regulate various functions from fetal growth to adulthood. SFRPs are recognized as opponents of Wnt signaling and are thought to be affiliated with Wnts. Further research revealed their interaction with frizzled receptors and functional differences were transferred to these proteins, the power of Wnt signaling without flexibility. Also, SFRP4 is linked to many diseases including obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cancer. In addition, SFRP4 acts as a biomarker for the diagnosis of T2D and its expression is observed before the clinical diagnosis of T2D. This review is mainly focused on the role of SFRP4 in obesity and its role in β-cell failure that leads to T2D. SFRP4 acts on adipose tissue that causes increased production of adipokines which creates oxidative stress in the pancreas with low levels of antioxidant enzymes in pancreatic β-cells resulting in failure of insulin exocytosis. Inflammation caused by obesity is an important factor in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Pro-inflammatory cytokines may induce insulin resistance in adipose tissue, bone tissue and liver by blocking the transmission of insulin signals. SFRP4 secretion is caused by interleukin 1-β (IL1-β).This review also highlights the molecular mechanisms by which SFRP4 leads to T2D. Understanding the cellular pathway and identifying SFRP4 may help to eliminate or reduce the chances of developing T2D.

Prevalence of Fabry Disease in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy in Turkey: Multicenter study (LVH-TR subgroup analysis).

In this prospective study we aimed to determine the rate of Fabry Disease (FD) in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and to evaluate the clinical presentations of patients with FD in a comprehensive manner. In addition, we aimed to raise awareness about this issue by allowing early diagnosis and treatment of FD. Our study was planned as national, multicenter, observational. Totally 22 different centers participated in this study. A total of 886 patients diagnosed with LVH by echocardiography (ECHO) were included in the study. Demographic data, biochemical parameters, electrocardiography (ECG) findings, ECHO findings, treatments and clinical findings of the patients were recorded. Dry blood samples were sent from male patients with suspected FD. The α-Gal A enzyme level was checked and genetic testing was performed in patients with low enzyme levels. Female patients suspected of FD were genetically tested with the GLA Gene Mutation Analysis. FD was suspected in a total of 143 (16.13%) patients included in the study. The α-Gal-A enzyme level was found to be low in 43 (4.85%) patients whom enzyme testing was requested. GLA gene mutation analysis was positive in 14 (1.58%) patients. Male gender, E/e' mean ,and severe hypertrophy are important risk factor for FD. In daily cardiology practice, FD should be kept in mind not only in adult patients with unexplained LVH but also in the entire LVH population. Dry blood test (DBS) should be considered in high-risk patients, and mutation analysis should be considered in required patients.

Interactions between Humans and Dogs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recent Updates and Future Perspectives.

COVID-19 is one of the deadliest epidemics. This pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but the role of dogs in spreading the disease in human society is poorly understood. This review sheds light on the limited susceptibility of dogs to COVID-19 infections which is likely attributed to the relatively low levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the respiratory tract and the phylogenetic distance of ACE2 in dogs from the human ACE2 receptor. The low levels of ACE2 affect the binding affinity between spike and ACE2 proteins resulting in it being uncommon for dogs to spread the disease. To demonstrate the role of dogs in spreading COVID-19, we reviewed the epidemiological studies and prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs. Additionally, we discussed the use of detection dogs as a rapid and reliable method for effectively discriminating between SARS-CoV-2 infected and non-infected individuals using different types of samples (secretions, saliva, and sweat). We considered the available information on COVID-19 in the human-dog interfaces involving the possibility of transmission of COVID-19 to dogs by infected individuals and vice versa, the human-dog behavior changes, and the importance of preventive measures because the risk of transmission by domestic dogs remains a concern.

ПОЛИМОРФИЗМЫ ГЕНОВ ФЕРМЕНТОВ АНТИОКСИДАНТНОЙ СИСТЕМЫ SOD2 (C47T, rS4880) И CAT (G262A, rS1001179) В ПАТОГЕНЕЗЕ ХРОНИЧЕСКОГО ГЕПАТИТА С

Introduction. An important component in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis C is the imbalance in oxidant and antioxidant systems. It is known that mutations in genes of antioxidant enzymes can lead to changes in antioxidant potential. Aim. To determine correlations of polymorphic variants of SOD2 (C47T, rs4880), CAT (G262A, rs1001179) superoxide dismutase and catalase genes with antioxidant system activity and features of clinical course of chronic hepatitis C. Material and Methods. The study of single nucleotide variants of genes of antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase SOD2 (C47T) and catalase CAT (G262A) was undertaken in 90 patients with chronic hepatitis C and 64 healthy controls. Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid from the epithelium of the inner surface of the cheek using ‘SNP-screen ‘ diagnostic reagents was analysed. The levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, alanine aminotransferase enzymes and degree of liver fibrosis were determined in the group of chronic hepatitis C patients. Correlations between investigated indexes were studied. Results and discussion. The distribution of alleles and genotypes of single nucleotide variants of catalase CAT (G262A) and superoxide dismutase SOD2 (C47T) genes among healthy subjects and chronic hepatitis C patients (p&gt;0,05) had no significant difference (p&gt;0,05), which testified to absence of influence of the studied gene variants on the risk of hepatitis C virus infection. We revealed statistically significant correlation of single-nucleotide variants of SOD2 (C47T) and CAT (G262A) genes with the development of chronic hepatitis C. Patients having G allele (genotypes GG and GA) of CAT (G262A) single nucleotide variants had low level of catalase enzyme, high level of alanine aminotransferase and high degree of F3-F4 fibrosis (correlation coefficient = -0,88*, p˂0,01). In patients with CC genotype SOD2 (C47T) a strong correlation with serum superoxide dismutase activity, severity of cytolysis syndrome (increased alanine aminotransferase) and degree of liver fibrosis (correlation coefficient = +0,70; p˂0,01) was established. Conclusion. In infection with hepatitis C virus polymorphic variants of SOD2 (C47T) and CAT (G262A) antioxidant system enzyme genes are the risk factors of hepatitis C progression, influencing catalase and superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, cytolysis syndrome development, determining liver fibrosis formation.

Gaucher Disease Diagnosed During Adolescence

Gaucher's disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal lipid storage disorder caused due to insufficient activity of the enzyme beta-glucocerebrosidase. Type 1 GD may present at any age but manifests in childhood in more than half of patients. In this case report, an adolescent who applied to our gastroenterology outpatient clinic with dyspeptic complaints and was diagnosed with type 1 GD is presented to draw attention to rare metabolic diseases. A 14-year-old girl complaining of abdominal and bone pain was admitted to the hospital. Erlenmeyer flask deformity was detected on the direct knee radiograph of the patient, as well as thrombocytopenia, ferritin elevation and hepatosplenomegaly. A preliminary diagnosis of Gaucher disease was considered upon detection of low levels of beta glucocerebrosidase enzyme for our patient. The homozygous variant was detected in the GBA gene NM_000157.4:c.1226A&gt;G (p.Asn409Ser) and diagnosed as Type 1 GD. When evaluating patients, it is important to remember that some rare metabolic diseases can be observed in older children. Our patient was diagnosed with Type 1 GD at an adolescent age, and treatment was started. Currently, improvements in clinical manifestations can be achieved with existing treatments. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose the disease at an early stage and begin the necessary treatment.

HCV Infection Increases the Expression of ACE2 Receptor, Leading to Enhanced Entry of Both HCV and SARS-CoV-2 into Hepatocytes and a Coinfection State.

Recent studies suggest the enhancement of liver injury in COVID-19 patients infected with Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatocytes express low levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor, raising the possibility of HCV-SARS-CoV-2 coinfection in the liver. This work aimed to explore whether HCV and SARS-CoV-2 coinfect hepatocytes and the interplay between these viruses. We demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 coinfects HCV-infected Huh7.5 (Huh7.5HCV) cells. Both viruses replicated efficiently in the coinfected cells, with HCV replication enhanced in coinfected compared to HCV-mono-infected cells. Strikingly, Huh7.5HCV cells were eight fold more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses than naive Huh7.5 cells, suggesting enhanced SARS-CoV-2 entry into HCV-preinfected hepatocytes. In addition, we observed increased binding of spike receptor-binding domain (RBD) protein to Huh7.5HCV cells, as well as enhanced cell-to-cell fusion of Huh7.5HCV cells with spike-expressing Huh7.5 cells. We explored the mechanism of enhanced SARS-CoV-2 entry and identified an increased ACE2 mRNA and protein levels in Huh7.5HCV cells, primary hepatocytes, and in data from infected liver biopsies obtained from database. Importantly, higher expression of ACE2 increased HCV infection by enhancing its binding to the host cell, underscoring its role in the HCV life cycle as well. Transcriptome analysis revealed that shared host signaling pathways were induced in HCV-SARS-CoV-2 coinfection. This study revealed complex interactions between HCV and SARS-CoV-2 infections in hepatocytes, which may lead to the increased liver damage recently reported in HCV-positive COVID-19 patients. IMPORTANCE Here, we provide the first experimental evidence for the coexistence of SARS-CoV-2 infection with HCV, and the interplay between them. The study revealed a complex relationship of enhancement between the two viruses, where HCV infection increased the expression of the SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor ACE2, thus facilitating SARS-CoV-2 entry, and potentially, also HCV entry. Thereafter, SARS-CoV-2 infection enhanced HCV replication in hepatocytes. This study may explain the aggravation of liver damage that was recently reported in COVID-19 patients with HCV coinfection and suggests preinfection with HCV as a risk factor for severe COVID-19. Moreover, it highlights the possible importance of HCV treatment for coinfected patients. In a broader view, these findings emphasize the importance of identifying coinfecting pathogens that increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and that may accelerate COVID-19-related co-morbidities.

THE COMPLEX RELATIONSHIP OF PARAOXONASE GENE POLYMORPHISMS WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE AND LIPID METABOLISM

Cardiovascular disorder (CVD) is one of the major reasons for mortality in developing and developed countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 50% of the overall disease burden in Pakistan. And among the NCDs, the most prevalent disease is CVD, as approximately every 1 out of 4 adults suffered from coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary artery disease mainly causes ischemia or hypoxia of the heart due to coronary vessels stenosis or atherosclerosis.1 The key risk factors include smoking, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, family history, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The genetic contribution to CAD is an independent factor that includes genetic polymorphisms such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) suggest many genes SNPs involved in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease.2 Although many studies identified the genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms but still, the role of these genetic factors is not clearly understood. Paraoxonase (PON) gene cluster is one of the most widely studied genes that consist of three genes PON1, PON2, and PON3, and located on chromosome 7. The PON2 is the oldest gene among this cluster however, all the 3 genes have a high structural homology. The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology classified the paraoxonases as aryldialkyl phosphatases. The enzymes coded by these gene clusters exhibit the antiatherosclerotic properties that play an essential role in high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or antioxidant properties. The PON1 activity is highly influenced by both genetic (non-modifiable) and environmental factors (modifiable).3 It involves a complex interaction between both genetic and modifiable factors. The human PON1 is a calcium-dependent glycoprotein that is first identified by its ability to hydrolyze various organophosphates. Through lipid peroxides hydrolysis, it reduces the low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Low enzyme levels are associated with cardiac disorders, familial hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus. To date, approximately 184 SNPs reported, and some coding region SNPs i.e. rs662 and rs854560 are the most widely studied single nucleotide polymorphisms.4 The most commonly studied Q192R polymorphism is associated with poor patient outcomes. The risk allele or R allele is associated with abnormal HDL and triglycerides levels and the worst CVD outcome. Furthermore, the levels of paraoxonase levels are also decreased in CVD patients and there is a complex relationship between different variables particularly genetic markers, lipid profile, or environmental factors with PON activity.5 The PON2 and PON3 similarly play a crucial role in lipid metabolism and inhibit atherosclerosis due to their protective role against the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in coronary arteries. In PON2 rs12704796 is significantly associated with coronary heart disease risk.6 Robertson et al. first reported single nucleotide polymorphism in PON3 at positions number 107 and 99 but the exact mechanism of these SNPs in the pathophysiology of CAD remains to be understood.7 The multi-locus model also revealed a gene to gene interaction between PON2 and PON3 and gene-environment in the Pakistani cardiac patients.8 The single nucleotide polymorphisms in this gene cluster are significantly important in CAD patients. These SNPs may exert their effect by modulating the lipid metabolism and enzyme concentrations in CAD patients, which can be varied according to certain environmental factors and ethnic groups. Thus, in the future, it is suggested to perform a study with more sample size in different populations that can help us in better understanding disease pathophysiology and prevention.